Methyl 3-fluoro-4-methoxybenzoate → 3-Fluoro-4-methoxybenzoic acid

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Reaction Steps

A solution of methyl 3-fluoro-4-(methyloxy)benzoate (534 mg, 2.9 mmol) in 35% aqueous potassium hydroxide:methanol (1:4, 10 mL) was stirred at reflux for 1 hour. The solution was cooled to room temperature and the methanol was evaporated. The pH of the aqueous portion was brought to 2 using concentrated hydrochloric acid. The precipitate which formed was collected by filtration and washed with water to afford 400 mg, 2.4 mmol (83%) of 3-fluoro-4-methoxybenzoic acid. MS (EI) for C8H7FO3: 169 (M−H).

Provenance & Evidence